What keys Cannot be duplicated?

Author: Mr. Moses Hyatt  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Which Keys Cannot Be Copied?
  • Transponder keys. ...
  • Four-sided keys. ...
  • Post Office box keys. ...
  • Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) keys. ...
  • Keys marked with “US Property.” These are government-issued keys and cannot be duplicated.
  • Master keys.

What keys are not allowed to be copied?

There are certain keys that cannot be copied out there, like high-security keys, that are designed to be almost impossible to duplicate. These keys usually have unique designs and require special equipment to replicate. Some even come with patents and legal protections to prevent unauthorized copying.

What type of key can't be copied?

The locksmith should be able to produce a patented key which is very difficult to copy, although not impossible, Keys such as security keys with a mechanical element in them are much more difficult to copy than ones without. Basically, there is no key in the world that would be impossible to copy.

How can you tell if a key cannot be copied?

“Do Not Duplicate” (DND) keys are keys stamped with these words which implies that copying them is not allowed. While this does deter some people from duplicating the keys, they are not exactly a foolproof security feature.

Can all house keys be duplicated?

Basically, almost any key that you currently have can be duplicated using the key cutting process. This is particularly useful when you need a spare key for a family member, a friend or even someone you've engaged to look after your pets and your garden when you're away on holiday.

Ask Mr Locksmith: What Keys Can't Be Duplicated?

What type of keys cannot be duplicated?

Which Keys Cannot Be Copied?
  • Transponder keys. ...
  • Four-sided keys. ...
  • Post Office box keys. ...
  • Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) keys. ...
  • Keys marked with “US Property.” These are government-issued keys and cannot be duplicated.
  • Master keys.

What types of keys can't be cut?

These are non-duplicable keys:
  • Transponder Key.
  • Laser Cut Car Key.
  • VAT Key.
  • Abloy keys.
  • Tubular Keys.
  • Internal Cut Keys.
  • Four-Sided Key.

Why can't my key be duplicated?

If you are having trouble getting your key copied at your preferred superstore or local hardware store it is probably because you have an I/C key, a locksmith-only key, a high security key, a DND key, an old key, or a key with an unusual bow.

Will Home Depot copy keys that say do not duplicate?

Home Depot employees often ignore the DND key stamp and copy these keys. Additionally, the key machines that are in Home Depot and Lowes ignore the DND stamp as well and will copy a DND key. Most locksmiths will now copy these keys too since they are so common and easily duplicated.

What does a restricted key look like?

A restricted key can take different shapes and forms depending on the level of restriction. Most of these are only able to be copied by the lock manufacturer. These keys usually require some level of ID card identification in order to be copied.

Which key Cannot have duplicate values?

The primary key is the minimum set of traits that distinguishes any row of a table. It cannot have NULL and duplicate values. The primary key is used to add integrity to the table.

How do I stop a key from being copied?

Stamping Keys with a “Do Not Duplicate” Stamp

You may have seen keys with the words “DO NOT DUPLICATE” stamped on them. In fact, we have these stamps at our own shop. Upon request, we can stamp key copies with this text.

Why does my key say "do not copy"?

Some keys are stamped with “do not copy” or “do not duplicate”. This is often used as a deterrent to prevent you from copying the key elsewhere. But unless it's part of a registered master key system, these words do not give it legal protection.

What Cannot be copied?

Names, titles, short phrases, or expressions

Also exempt: Names. Titles. Short phrases or expressions.

Can you make a key that cannot be copied?

Summary. Anyone can duplicate a key that says do not duplicate so long as it is a commonly found key type. If you desire keys that cannot be copied, then you will need to move into a lock system that utilizes restricted keyways.

What keys allow you to copy?

To copy and paste, you can use keyboard shortcuts:
  • PC: Ctrl + c for Copy, Ctrl + x for Cut, and Ctrl + v for Paste.
  • Mac: ⌘ + c for Copy, ⌘ + x for Cut, and ⌘ + v for Paste.

What kind of keys say do not duplicate?

The "do not duplicate" label on door lock keys is often used to prevent unauthorized duplication of the keys by non-authorized personnel. This is done primarily for security purposes in order to protect homeowners or businesses who share key access with different people.

How much does Home Depot charge for key duplication?

Home Depot offers key duplication services for a range of standard keys, with prices typically between $4 and $10 depending on the key blank. They can duplicate house keys, business keys, and padlock keys from popular brands like Yale, Master Lock, and American Lock.

Are duplicate primary keys allowed?

You can define keys which allow duplicate values. However, do not allow duplicates on primary keys as the value of a record's primary key must be unique. When you use duplicate keys, be aware that there is a limit on the number of times you can specify the same value for an individual key.

What type of key can not be duplicated?

Patented keys take key security a step further. They are protected by patents, making it illegal for anyone other than the authorised manufacturer to produce duplicates. Patented keys are commonly found in restricted systems such as high-security locks, safes, and proprietary equipment.

How do I stop my keys from being cloned?

By storing your car keys, fob or card in an aluminium tin (even grandma's old biscuit tins), or a special signal blocking box, the signal between the car and key is blocked. This means thieves can't intercept it and clone a new one. If you're out and about, then a Faraday pouch is your best friend.

Why can't I make a copy of my apartment key?

Certain hardware stores won't reproduce a key stamped with a do not copy message. Nevertheless, locksmiths will usually make copies for you. They're more conscious that the request on the key is just that, a request and not a mandate.

Can some keys not be cut?

A key that is patent protected is illegal to copy unless you have special permission. This is designed to keep the key from being freely cut and limits access to the lock it works in.

How to prevent a key from being copied?

Patented cylinders are the solution. Users who install a patented cylinder acquire an ownership card with their purchase which is essential to make new copies.

Which two keys Cannot open?

Which two keys cant open any door: The answer to this question is Don"key" and Mon"key". EXPLANATION: The definition of a key is that it's a small piece of shaped metal with incisions cut to fit the wards of a particular lock, which is inserted into a lock and turned to open or close it.

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